Arizona 2026 Regular Session

Arizona House Bill HB2151

Introduced

1/13/26

Caption

surface water; irrigation; definition

Impact

The passage of HB 2151 is likely to have significant implications for state laws regarding water rights and usage. By defining 'irrigation' explicitly to encompass water application for agricultural production, human consumption, and livestock feed, the bill would facilitate better regulatory frameworks for agricultural stakeholders. This can promote efficiency in water resource management in an arid state like Arizona, potentially fostering agricultural sustainability and enhancing food security.

Summary

House Bill 2151 seeks to amend section 45-151 of the Arizona Revised Statutes with a focus on the definitions and rights associated with surface water and irrigation. The bill clarifies the rights of individuals and political subdivisions within Arizona to appropriate unappropriated water for various uses, including domestic purposes, municipal supply, irrigation, livestock watering, and recreational purposes. By streamlining the language and definitions surrounding water rights, the bill aims to enhance clarity and accessibility for stakeholders engaging in water appropriation and management.

Contention

While the bill is aimed at clarifying existing laws, there may be contention regarding the potential impacts on environmental protections and rights of smaller water users. Some stakeholders may express concerns that broad definitions favor larger agricultural operations at the expense of ecological health and water availability for smaller domestic users or ecosystems. Additionally, questions may arise about the effectiveness of the proposed amendments in addressing current water scarcity issues faced by the state.

Latest AZ HB2151 Activity

View All Events: AZ 2026 Regular Session HB2151

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AZ SB1304

Irrigation water; assured water supply

AZ HB2826

Irrigation districts; water distribution

AZ HB2273

Lottery; on-farm irrigation efficiency fund

AZ HCM2009

San Carlos irrigation project; divestiture

AZ HB2573

Groundwater; plants; wine grapes; non-irrigation

AZ HB2638

On-farm irrigation efficiency program; continuation

AZ HB2478

Subsequent irrigation; non-expansion areas; procedures

AZ SB1253

Subsequent irrigation; non-expansion areas; procedures.

AZ HB2246

Appropriation; irrigation grandfathered rights; retirement

AZ HB2899

Minimum wage; increase; definitions

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